Silver for Alessandra Keller at the home European Championships
A successful start for Thömus maxon at the Mountain Bike European Championships in Monte Tamaro: Alessandra Keller claimed the silver medal in the Short Track (XCC), securing the team’s first elite podium of the championships. The development squad also impressed, with Nicolas Halter taking U23 European Championship silver.
The Elite Women’s Short Track developed into a high-quality and thrilling race from the very start. Alessandra Keller featured at the front throughout alongside fellow Swiss rider Sina Frei and Jenny Rissveds (SWE). The trio established a small advantage early on before Evie Richards (GBR) closed to within seconds in the closing laps, adding even more drama to the battle for the medals.
Keller claims her first Elite European Championship medal
In the final, the leading trio held off the chasing riders. Sina Frei secured the European title, Alessandra Keller took the silver medal, while Jenny Rissveds completed the podium in third place.
“My goal was to represent the rainbow jersey with pride and to win a medal at our home European Championships. To achieve that and to share the podium with Sina means a great deal to me. Becoming European silver medallist feels fantastic, and now I’m looking forward to Sunday’s Cross-country race,” said Keller after the medal ceremony.
Mechanical issue ends Albin’s race
Vital Albin represented Thömus maxon in the Elite Men’s race. The Swiss rider was well positioned in the leading group before a mechanical problem in the second lap forced him to retire, denying him the opportunity to fight for a top result.
Strong performances from the development squad
Another highlight for the organisation came from Nicolas Halter SUI) of the Thömus Akros Youngstars team. The U23 rider delivered an outstanding performance to secure the silver medal in his category.
The team’s other young riders also produced convincing performances. Racing for Liechtenstein, Romano Püntener finished a strong 11th in the highly competitive U23 men’s race. In the U23 women’s event, Swiss rider Monique Halter crossed the line in 11th place, closely followed by Sirin Städler (SUI) in 13th, while Lara Liehner (SUI) completed the team’s solid overall performance with 18th place.
The Focus shifts already
With two silver medals on the opening day of the home European Championships, Thömus maxon can look back on a highly encouraging start. Attention now turns to Sunday’s Olympic Cross-country race.